In the Blink of an Eye

In this new body of work, Billie Zangewa offers viewers a rare glimpse into the intimate and often unseen aspects of her creative process. On view for the first time, a series of delicate pencil drawings featuring portraits of her son created over the years reveals the early stages of her artistic journey and the quiet, methodical preparation that comes before her well known silk collages.

These drawings serve as foundational studies, where Zangewa carefully maps out each form and gesture before translating them into fabric. They highlight not only her technical precision but also the emotional depth that characterises her practice. While her completed silk pieces are celebrated for their beauty and complexity, these preparatory works provide insight into the artist’s thoughtful planning and personal connection to her subject matter.

This is the first time these drawings have been exhibited publicly, and they are currently on view at Norval Foundation as part of Billie Zangewa: Breeding Ground. The exhibition is curated by Anelisa Mangcu and runs from 18 February 2024 to 11 January 2026.